Skeleton Coast National Park

Pros & Cons

• Fascinating desert coastline environment
• Big seal colonies
• Off-the-beaten-track wilderness destination
• Excellent birding opportunities
• Very remote and inaccessible
• Low animal densities and little variety

Wildlife

The Skeleton Coast is not a prime wildlife destination. Most people visiting this area stop prior to reaching the national park at the Cape Cross seal colony. Similar, less accessible colonies can be found inside the park, including a huge colony at Torra Bay farther north. They attract scavengers such as brown hyena and black-backed jackals. Other marine wildlife includes Heaviside's dolphin and green turtle.

• More about the Skeleton Coast’s wildlife

Scenery

The park protects a narrow strip of barren desert coast. The conflict of temperatures where the sea meets the desert creates a layer of almost permanent fog, which makes the scenery even more mysterious. The fog gives life to more than 100 different species of lichen, which reveal a mosaic of colors and shapes when viewed closely.

Activities

Wildlife viewing here is largely restricted to the seal colonies, although the birding can be excellent. This is a popular area for 4WD expeditions, and some of the remote, upmarket lodges offer quad biking and hiking. The coast is a popular place for Namibians to go recreational shore fishing.

Weather & Climate

The Skeleton Coast experiences a dry winter with minimal rainfall, which is known as the Dry season (May to October). These months are also characterized by cool winds blowing in from the west, and heavy fog, particularly in the morning. Summer coincides with the Wet season (November to April) and sees a continuation of the fog, though it diminishes slightly. There’s also increasing rainfall and warmer temperatures.

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Best Time To Visit

The best time to head to the Skeleton Coast is during the warmer months, roughly from October to March. The fog is not as heavy at this time and the skies clear up after rain. You’re also more likely to see wildlife, as the chilly winds of the drier months tend to send animals scampering for cover.

• More about the best time to visit

Want To Visit Skeleton Coast NP?

21 Skeleton Coast Safaris

• Skeleton Coast Safaris & Tours
• Tour Operators for Skeleton Coast